[23.11.2016] If an anniversary of eight centuries, as the Order of Preachers celebrates this year (1216/17 – 2016/17), looks back to the past, it also invites us to embrace the present and reflect upon a vision of the future. The title of an art exhibition at Santa Sabina (Rome) – “AUGURI” – suggests such a perspective.

15 dominican artists: Fifteen banners hung in the side naves of this Paleo-Christian basilica Santa Sabina given to St Dominic by the Pope in 1220 are expressive of so many figures from the Dominican tradition. Each brother, sister or laity exemplifying the multitude of charisms of the Order of Preachers.

Kris Martin and Adam Rokosz: Two current artists form the contemporary heart of the exhibition. The first has no particular link with the family of St Dominic. Kris Martin enjoys an international reputation. His artwork conveys his thoughts on what he sees around him and presents certain challenges to those who are willing to give his work time. He received carte blanche to exhibit in Santa Sabina and his artwork will stimulate both those who usually frequent the basilica and those who are welcome for this exhibition. The second, Adam Rokosz OP, is a young Dominican photographer from Vienna who is displaying five photographs on the theme of the incarnation. The two artists found here together express another important aspect of the Dominican Tradition: dialogue. The stranger is welcomed right into the curial house of the Order of Preachers.